Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey by launching a health and wellness business but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ann Barnes, CEO, and founder of Edica Naturals, based in Ontario, Canada.
Tell us all about your business...
Edica Naturals is a Plant-Powered natural supplement and beauty brand. We help reverse the aging process with plant-based solutions: both internally and topically. Our customers want to look and feel young, active, and vibrant - at whatever age.
What's your background and motivation to grow as a solopreneur?
Edica Naturals was born out of my mid-life health issues. Once I experienced extreme menopausal symptoms (weight gain, brain fog, nausea, and severe night sweats) and then blew out my right knee in an obstacle course race, I knew that healthy solutions were needed! After scouring the internet and sampling various products that did not help me, I felt frustrated and angry. My frustration led me on a quest for truth and answers for simple solutions because I NEEDED THEM! I thought: “If I need them, don’t other women as well?”. Our numerous plant-based formulations are all designed to help you be the best version of yourself. Your Optimal authentic YOU. Health Canada has carefully reviewed each formulation (the Canadian Government’s Food and Drug Regulatory body), with approved health claims and identified with a registered Natural Products Number (NPN). The NPN is respected worldwide as it recognizes approved specific health claims backed by prolific proven research. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also reviewed each formulation and provided acceptable use statements for each Edica Naturals product. We are proud to have such rigorous formal regulatory review for our formulations….and know that they ACTUALLY WORK!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My most outstanding achievement as a business owner is helping people feel like their OPTIMAL selves. Our Edica Naturals' products help people feel: more balanced, more vital, pain-free, healthier, sexier, and overall happier.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a solopreneur?
For me, the hardest thing about being a business owner is pushing through the episodes of self-doubt. When you are responsible for employees and their families' livelihoods, it can feel overwhelming at times. The buck stops with you, and that can feel daunting.
What is the top tip you'd give to anyone looking to start, run or grow a small business today?
I have more than three! First: don’t give up. Use your intuition and understand that your true passion will drive you forward. Surround yourself with positive well-intentioned people. Love yourself and those around you. Don’t be taken off route by financial promises or conditional ‘carrots.’ The money will come if you stay true to your sense of purpose.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I have been privileged to work and create in the plant-based world in various industries: chia & other superfoods, hemp, cannabis, psilocybin, and now in beauty and supplements. I feel fortunate to have been able to live out my passion for plants.
Where can people find you online?
Debutify
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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